Congressman Gene Green DTX29 has commended a National Park Service NPS study concluding that Buffalo Bayou is eligible to be designated a National Heritage Area NHA. Buffalo Bayou runs from central Houston and along the Houston Ship Channel to Galveston Bay. NPS report describes the Bayou as an important artery currently supporting oil refining, petrochemical production, and commercial trade. It also sustained the growth of Baytown and the development of Houston economic powerhouses of energy and petrochemical industries. But the significance of Buffalo Bayou began in early Texas history as a focal point of settlement and then as the location of the Battle of San Jacinto, where Texas won its independence in 1836.

Buffalo Bayou has enabled our area to become the energy capital of the world and the Port of Houston to become the busiest port in the United States, Green added. is not only essential to the economy of Texas, but is a cultural centerpiece. is currently moving into the final stages of the NHA process by drafting legislation to officially designate Buffalo Bayou as a National Heritage Area. If approved by Congress, Buffalo Bayou will be the first National Heritage Area in the State of Texas.

The Buffalo Bayou National Heritage Area plan has received wide support from area organizations. The distinction will allow tourism benefits of federal recognition without restriction on land or commerce. The National Park Service study will be available for review and public comment for 30 days until May 21, 2010.